The year was 2016. Chokers were compulsory, slip dresses reigned supreme, and bomber jackets went with literally everything. Our jeans were still skinny, millennial pink was the shade du jour, and florals were blooming on the cover of Fashion Quarterly.
But if the current 2016 revival on social media has shown us anything, it’s that not every trend is worth repeating. Below, the FQ team unpacks the pieces actually worthy of a place back in your wardrobe in 2026.
The slip dress
“2016 was the era of the Miss Crabb slip dress – those cuts stand the test of time and I know we’d all welcome a Miss Crabb return. Today, I’d wear it paired with sandals in summer and layered over trousers and a t-shirt for a more transeasonal look.” – Georgia Bramley, creative director
The bomber jacket
“Like so many of my peers, I was utterly obsessed with the bomber jacket in 2016. Yes, that khaki green one you’re already picturing. While I haven’t re-invested in one for 2026, its appeal remains undeniable: an easy, transeasonal layer that works with jeans and a simple T-shirt. Now, I’m looking for a leather bomber to bring a more elevated edge to my everyday wardrobe.” – Natalia Didovich, digital producer
The choker
“For me, the year was defined by a black choker, usually worn with skinny ripped jeans and some kind of bejewelled tank. Iconic in its time, but not something I’d resurrect exactly as it was. These days, I’m much more drawn to a timeless gold necklace, and I’m very happy with that evolution.” – Sophie de Renzy, multimedia content co-ordinator
The jumpsuit
“That year was my peak Reformation (brand) era – particularly low back bodysuits and jumpsuits. I’m not quite ready to commit to skinny jeans again, but I still love a jumpsuit!” – Tiffany Low, commercial director
The off-the-shoulder top
“My 2016 go-to was an off-the-shoulder top, and it was also the year I was first introduced to Ruby’s now-iconic Firebird pants. Safe to say it was love at first wear, they’re still a staple in my wardrobe all these years later.” – Bridget Yee, brand and strategy director
Denim on denim
“In 2016, my younger self dressed with an unwavering commitment to the trends of the moment: denim on denim, layers of choker necklaces and oversized hoops were key. Even today, I still wear denim on denim with fine choker necklaces. What once felt like a bold statement now feels like a natural part of my style.” – Vanessa Bathfield, commercial editor
